We frequently get asked “how can I slow down my auger?” There are many variations of this question, although it almost always involves an electric motor drive. Variations include portable augers, custom/utility augers, unload augers (powerheads), and bin sweeps.
Slowing down a portable auger is usually quite simple, especially if it is ordered properly.
For the Hutchinson Century II augers (8 or 10 inch sizes), the auger can be ordered with a 2 to 1 reduction drive head. That means you’ll get a different set of sprockets in the head chain case which will cut the auger speed in half. A retrofit can also be accomplished on existing augers, but it will require you to remove and open the chain case. This is very effective speed management and not terribly expensive.
On the Hutchinson Mid-Drive augers, 8 inch and 10 inch, those are slowed a little differently. Again, you should order the auger properly. The Mid-Drive augers are available with a larger driven pulley and complementing belt guard. This can also be ordered and retrofitted on existing augers.
In that same vein, switching to a larger driven pulley is a common slowdown strategy for almost any auger. For instance, if your auger is furnished with a 12″ pulley, switching to a 15″ pulley will give you about one-third reduction in speed. When you do this, be sure the manufacturer allows it and that the furnished belt guard will accommodate the larger pulley. You CANNOT run without proper guards.
Another possibility on most any auger switching to a smaller motor pulley. If you motor pulley is 4″ OD or larger, you can consider a 3″ or 3 1/2″ motor pulley.
Finally, there are slowdown options in a Sukup Sweepway power sweep. This is a common request for bins used as “wet holding.” For those situations, there is a driven sprocket in your center sump which can be changed to slow down the sweep. The other option is a larger (14″) pulley in your horizontal powerhead. However, changing the pulley will slow down the unload auger too. Usually that is not desirable. The sprocket change is usually preferred in the Sweepway.